BILLIE Piper is the most fantastic person in the world, according to estranged husband Chris Evans.

But the former DJ and TV presenter, who will host this week's Brit Awards, says he does not want Swindon-born Billie back even though he still loves her.

He insists they are the best of friends and says she will be guest of honour at his table at the Brits on Wednesday.

"I love Billie," he said. "She's the most fantastic person in the world and one of a handful of people who are important to me and to whom I speak all the time.

"People seem surprised that you can stay friends after a marriage ends but why not?"

Evans, 38, pictured left with his ex-wife, said he did not want to hold Billie, 22, back from her blossoming career.

"We love each other so much we can't hold each other back," he said.

"None of us knew that she'd turn out to be this amazing actress. But I knew that if we stayed married, I'd hold her back and I didn't want to do that.

"I knew how important it was for her to do her thing. I wanted her to be happy and do well."

And even if Billie finds happiness by marrying again, Chris would still be pleased.

"I told her that if she gets married again, I'll be cheering the loudest for her and she said she felt the same about me," he said.

Billie, who attended Bradon Forest School at Purton, will star in a forthcoming revival of the Dr Who TV series.